Glasgow Science Centre: Interactive Exploration on the Clyde
Explore science hands-on with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and Scotland’s tallest rotating tower on the scenic banks of the River Clyde.
Situated on the south bank of the River Clyde, Glasgow Science Centre is a dynamic science museum featuring over 300 hands-on exhibits across three floors. It offers immersive experiences including a planetarium, Scotland’s tallest rotating observation tower, a Science Show Theatre, and an IMAX cinema. Designed to engage visitors of all ages, it combines education with entertainment in a striking riverside setting.
A brief summary to Glasgow Science Centre
- 50 Pacific Quay, Glasgow, G51 1EA, GB
- +441414205000
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit after 1 pm on weekdays or during weekends to avoid peak crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Purchase tickets online in advance for the planetarium and IMAX cinema to secure your preferred showtimes.
- Check weather conditions if planning to visit the Glasgow Tower, as it is closed during high winds or adverse weather.
- Allow at least three hours to fully explore the exhibits, shows, and cinema experiences.
- Families with young children should explore the Big Explorer area for age-appropriate interactive play.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take First Bus services 89 or 90 from Union Street, with a journey time of approximately 20–30 minutes. Buses run frequently but check schedules for weekend and holiday variations. The stop is a short walk from the centre entrance.
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Train and Walk
Use the train to Exhibition Centre station, about 10 minutes from Glasgow Central. From there, cross the River Clyde via the Millennium Bridge on foot, a scenic 10–15 minute walk to the Science Centre.
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Car
Driving from central Glasgow takes around 10–15 minutes depending on traffic. Paid parking is available on-site, but spaces can be limited during peak times. Nearby street parking is possible but may require a longer walk.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Glasgow city centre typically takes 10 minutes. This option offers direct access and is convenient for groups or visitors with mobility needs. Prices vary but expect approximately £7–£12.
Glasgow Science Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Glasgow Science Centre
Architectural Landmark and Riverside Setting
Glasgow Science Centre stands prominently on the banks of the River Clyde, its modern design marked by sleek metal cladding and distinctive shapes. The centerpiece is the Glasgow Tower, soaring to 127 meters, making it the tallest free-standing structure in Scotland. This tower is engineered to rotate with the wind, offering panoramic views when operational, typically open from April to October depending on weather conditions. The centre’s location near the SEC campus and connected by the pedestrian Millennium Bridge situates it within a vibrant urban redevelopment area, blending science with Glasgow’s industrial heritage.Immersive Science Exhibits Across Multiple Floors
Inside, the Science Mall spreads over three floors, housing more than 300 interactive exhibits that bring scientific concepts to life. Visitors can explore themes such as electromagnetism, sound waves, human biology, and energy sustainability. Notable zones include "BodyWorks," which delves into human health, and "Powering the Future," focusing on energy challenges and innovations. Younger children enjoy the Big Explorer area, designed with water play and construction activities to stimulate curiosity and learning through play.Engaging Theatres and Cinematic Experiences
The centre also features a Science Show Theatre, where live demonstrations combine entertainment with education through experiments full of visual and auditory excitement. The planetarium offers a celestial journey, projecting over 9,000 stars and constellations, enhancing understanding of astronomy in a captivating setting. Scotland’s largest IMAX cinema screens 2D and 3D films, ranging from documentaries to blockbuster movies, complementing the educational experience with immersive visual storytelling.Educational Outreach and Accessibility
Glasgow Science Centre is dedicated to inspiring all ages, with a strong focus on accessibility and inclusion. Facilities include lifts, accessible toilets, hearing loops, and mobility aids, ensuring the centre is welcoming to visitors with diverse needs. Educational programs and workshops frequently run, often attracting school groups during term time. The centre’s commitment to sustainability is recognized with a Green Key eco-certificate and awards for inclusive tourism.Visitor Amenities and Practical Considerations
Visitors can enjoy a café offering Scottish produce, a gift shop stocked with science-themed merchandise, and well-maintained restrooms. The centre operates mainly from Wednesday to Sunday during winter months, with extended daily hours in summer. Admission includes access to the Science Mall, with additional charges for the planetarium and IMAX cinema. Parking is available nearby for a fee, and public transport options include buses and train access via the Exhibition Centre station.Continuing Legacy and Community Impact
Since opening in 2001, the Glasgow Science Centre has become a cornerstone for public engagement with science in Scotland. It not only entertains but also educates, fostering curiosity and critical thinking. Its role as a venue for conferences and events integrates science with cultural and social activities, enhancing Glasgow’s reputation as a city of innovation and learning.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Finnieston Crane
0.6 km
Glasgow's iconic industrial sentinel—a 175-ton testament to engineering brilliance and maritime heritage.
The Clyde Arc
0.7 km
Glasgow’s Squinty Bridge: A modern architectural icon spanning the River Clyde with stunning views and vibrant urban energy.
Savings Bank of Glasgow building
1.3 km
A Victorian banking landmark symbolizing Glasgow's rise to financial prominence in 19th-century Britain.
Statue of Light and Life
1.6 km
Gilded guardian of Glasgow’s skyline, the Statue of Light and Life shines atop 95 Morrison Street, symbolizing guidance and vitality.
Caledonian Mansions
2.0 km
Discover Glasgow’s Victorian charm at Caledonian Mansions, a stunning landmark showcasing intricate stonework and historic grandeur on Great Western Road.
The Glasgow School of Art
2.1 km
Mackintosh's revolutionary masterpiece where Scottish baronial tradition meets modernist vision.
McLellan Galleries
2.1 km
Victorian art gallery turned creative workspace, preserving Glasgow's 19th-century cultural ambitions.
Maxwell Park
2.2 km
Experience the tranquility of Maxwell Park in Glasgow’s South Side, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike.
ToursByLocals - Glasgow
2.2 km
Discover Glasgow's rich culture and hidden gems through personalized tours with local experts at ToursByLocals.
glasgow south side
2.2 km
Discover the cultural heart of Glasgow's South Side, where vibrant art, historic landmarks, and local cuisine create an unforgettable experience.
La Pasionaria
2.3 km
Discover La Pasionaria in Glasgow, a powerful sculpture symbolizing resilience and passion, capturing the essence of the city's rich history and culture.
The Sixty Steps
2.4 km
Discover Glasgow’s historic Sixty Steps, a beautifully designed Victorian staircase by Alexander 'Greek' Thomson nestled in the charming Kelvinside district.
The Lighthouse
2.4 km
Experience the blend of historic architecture and contemporary art at The Lighthouse, Glasgow's premier cultural destination.
Good as Gold Street Art
2.5 km
Explore Good as Gold Street Art in Glasgow - a vibrant open-air gallery showcasing stunning murals and street art that reflect the city's creative spirit.
Riddle Rooms Glasgow
2.5 km
Experience the thrill of escape rooms in Glasgow, where adventure awaits around every corner with engaging puzzles and immersive themes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Paddle Steamer Waverley
0.1 km
Step aboard the world’s last seagoing paddle steamer for a nostalgic cruise along Scotland’s stunning west coast and beyond.
Glasgow Science Centre Tower
0.2 km
Experience Scotland’s tallest rotating tower with breathtaking panoramic views and cutting-edge engineering on the banks of the River Clyde.
SEC Armadillo
0.4 km
A striking Glasgow auditorium shaped like ship hulls, blending maritime heritage with cutting-edge design and versatile event spaces.
Scottish Event Campus
0.4 km
Scotland’s largest integrated venue for world-class exhibitions, concerts, and conferences on Glasgow’s vibrant River Clyde waterfront.
The Clydeside Distillery
0.5 km
Discover Glasgow’s whisky heritage revived at The Clydeside Distillery, where history, craft, and riverside charm blend into a unique tasting experience.
OVO Hydro
0.5 km
Scotland’s premier live arena, the OVO Hydro dazzles with iconic design and world-class events for over 14,000 spectators.
Railway Arches Murals
0.7 km
Discover Glasgow’s vibrant culture and history expressed through ever-changing murals beneath the iconic railway arches on Pointhouse Road.
The wild pork statue
0.9 km
A whimsical bronze wild boar sculpture celebrating Glasgow’s creative spirit in the heart of Finnieston.
Riverside Museum
1.1 km
Explore Glasgow’s transport heritage through interactive exhibits and historic street scenes at the award-winning Riverside Museum on the River Clyde.
The Tall Ship Glenlee
1.1 km
Explore Glasgow’s iconic Tall Ship Glenlee, a beautifully restored 1896 steel sailing barque and living museum of maritime heritage on the River Clyde.
Glasgow City Antiques
1.1 km
Explore Glasgow City Antiques, a vast warehouse of quality vintage furniture and unique collectibles in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant antique scene.
Wonder World Soft Play Glasgow
1.1 km
Glasgow’s expansive indoor play centre with thrilling slides, toddler zones, and a volcano-themed adventure for family fun all year round.
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
1.1 km
Explore Glasgow’s iconic Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, home to world-class art, historic artifacts, and captivating exhibits in a stunning historic setting.
Kelvin Hall Open Collections
1.2 km
Historic Glasgow landmark blending rich cultural collections with modern amenities in a vibrant West End setting.
Stewart Memorial Fountain
1.2 km
A Victorian Gothic masterpiece in Kelvingrove Park honoring Glasgow’s water pioneer, Robert Stewart, and the gift of clean water.
Essential places to dine
Fallachan Kitchen
0.7 km
Experience Scotland’s finest seasonal tasting menu at Fallachan Kitchen’s intimate 12-seat chef’s table in a unique Glasgow railway arch.
The Gannet
0.9 km
A stylish Finnieston restaurant blending modern Scottish flavors with sustainable sourcing and refined fine dining elegance.
The Finnieston
0.9 km
A stylish seafood haven paired with an award-winning gin bar in the heart of Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston district.
Porter & Rye
0.9 km
Discover Glasgow’s premier steakhouse in Finnieston, where expertly dry-aged Scottish beef meets rustic charm and impeccable service.
Fanny Trollopes
0.9 km
Seasonal Scottish bistro in Glasgow’s Finnieston, blending rustic charm with fine dining and crafted cocktails in an intimate setting.
Ox and Finch
1.0 km
Michelin-recognised sharing plates in Glasgow's most vibrant foodie neighbourhood, where seasonal simplicity meets culinary craft.
UNALOME by Graeme Cheevers
1.0 km
Michelin-starred fine dining in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston, blending seasonal Scottish seafood with warm, elegant service in a relaxed setting.
Big Slope
1.0 km
Cozy Finnieston basement bar serving top-tier pub grub, craft cocktails, and dog-friendly vibes in a shabby-chic haven with summer beer garden bliss.
Argyle House Restaurant
1.1 km
Modern British and European dining in Glasgow’s South Side with a stylish atmosphere and approachable prices.
Eighty Eight
1.3 km
Discover Eighty Eight, Glasgow’s cozy small plates restaurant blending Mediterranean flair with seasonal, locally sourced delights in a vibrant West End setting.
Number 16 Restaurant
1.4 km
Intimate West End restaurant serving inventive modern Scottish cuisine with fresh, local ingredients in a cozy, award-winning setting.
The Buttery
1.4 km
Experience classic Scottish cuisine in a warm, elegant setting at Glasgow’s historic and beloved The Buttery.
Celino's
1.5 km
A lively Italian restaurant and deli in Partick offering authentic flavors and a bustling atmosphere with moderate prices.
Baby Grand Bar & Grill
1.6 km
Live piano music, refined British cuisine, and timeless elegance in Glasgow's city centre.
Stravaigin
1.7 km
Discover Stravaigin, Glasgow’s vibrant West End gastro pub blending bold global flavors with local Scottish ingredients in a lively, bohemian setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
VELVET MOON
0.9 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local treasures in the charming and characterful Velvet Moon gift shop in Glasgow’s Finnieston.
Gallus Alice
1.0 km
A stylish boutique in Glasgow’s vibrant Finnieston offering unique fashion with a bold local flair and a curated shopping experience.
University of Glasgow Gift Shop
1.5 km
Discover official University of Glasgow merchandise and authentic Scottish gifts in a lively, accessible shop nestled beneath the Hunterian Museum.
McLay's Gift Shop
1.6 km
Discover handcrafted treasures and unique gifts with a personal touch at McLay's Gift Shop in Glasgow’s vibrant Hilton district.
Cut Price Gift Shop
1.8 km
Independent gift shop in Partick offering eclectic treasures and exceptional value on Dumbarton Road.
Oliver Bonas
1.9 km
Discover joyful style at Oliver Bonas on Byres Road: eclectic fashion, sparkling jewellery, chic homewares, and gifts that brighten everyday life in Glasgow's creative West End.
Found
2.0 km
Discover unique and vintage-inspired homewares and lighting in the heart of Partick, Glasgow’s creative shopping district.
Decadent Riot
2.0 km
A quirky Glasgow boutique offering unique gifts, artistic cards, and a warm, welcoming shopping experience for those seeking something truly distinctive.
Downstair Design Co.
2.0 km
Compact West End gift shop showcasing curated cards, jewellery and design-led presents in a cosy, maker-focused setting.
The Glasgow Vintage Co
2.0 km
Discover curated vintage fashion treasures at The Glasgow Vintage Co, a stylish hub for timeless apparel in Glasgow’s West End.
Braw Wee Emporium
2.0 km
Celebrate Scottish creativity with handmade gifts from independent designers and makers.
West Vintage
2.1 km
A compact West End boutique specialising in well‑curated vintage clothing and sustainable style on Great Western Road.
Papyrus
2.1 km
Quirky gifts, cookware delights, and sustainable finds in Glasgow's vibrant West End – Papyrus sparks joy on every shelf.
Amaryllis Westend
2.1 km
Discover unique lifestyle products at Amaryllis Westend, a charming boutique in Glasgow's artistic West End, perfect for finding memorable souvenirs.
Cassiopeia Gift Ltd
2.1 km
Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories with personalized service in Glasgow’s charming Cassiopeia Gift Ltd.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Red Sky Bar
0.7 km
Glasgow’s vibrant rooftop bar with panoramic city views, creative cocktails, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Finnieston Quay.
The Ben Nevis
0.9 km
Cozy Scottish pub in Finnieston with a vast whisky selection, rustic charm, and lively Celtic music nights.
The Park Bar
0.9 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant traditional music scene and warm local hospitality at The Park Bar, a historic Scottish pub in Finnieston.
The Islay Inn
0.9 km
Experience Glasgow’s spirited whisky culture and hearty pub fare at The Islay Inn, a vibrant hub of friendly service and live music on Argyle Street.
Dukes Bar
0.9 km
A cozy and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow, blending relaxed vibes with quality drinks and friendly service.
The Dirty Duchess
1.0 km
A cozy, contemporary pub on Argyle Street blending traditional charm with lively cocktails and a dog-friendly vibe.
EightySix
1.3 km
Cozy Glasgow cocktail bar famed for creative drinks like the red wine float and margaritas, perfect for relaxed evening socializing.
The Record Factory
1.4 km
A West End bar with dive‑bar energy, a large beer garden and DJs that keep the party rolling late into the night.
The Bon Accord
1.5 km
Discover Glasgow’s Bon Accord, a legendary pub boasting over 900 beers and an award-winning whisky bar in a vibrant, historic setting.
Smiddy Bar
1.5 km
A lively and welcoming West End pub in Glasgow’s Partick, known for friendly vibes, great drinks, and community spirit.
The Aragon Bar
1.6 km
Cozy West End pub pouring local pints, quiz nights, and live Scottish tunes in a dog-friendly, no-frills haven on Byres Road.
Deoch An Dorus
1.7 km
Authentic Glasgow pub in Partick offering hearty fare, well-poured pints, and a lively sports atmosphere with friendly local vibes.
Innis & Gunn Glasgow West End Brewery Taproom
1.8 km
Tank-fresh brews and a rotating craft tap list in a warm, industrial-chic taproom tucked on Glasgow’s Ashton Lane.
Vodka Wodka
1.8 km
Quirky West End cocktail bar with an all-weather, multi-level beer garden and a colossal vodka list — casual, lively and unpretentious.
Curlers Rest Glasgow
1.9 km
Historic Byres Road pub pouring 25 draught beers amid exposed brick charm and open-kitchen Scottish fare in Glasgow's West End.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Berkeley Suite
1.6 km
Discover Glasgow’s hidden vintage nightclub with top DJs, retro vibes, and an intimate dancehall atmosphere beneath a 1940s ballroom.
Firewater
1.9 km
Dive into Glasgow's indie nightlife at Firewater, where two rooms blast alternative anthems, cheap entry fuels the fun, and Sauchiehall Street's energy ignites until 2:30am Thu-Sat.
Saint Judes After Dark
2.1 km
Glasgow's electrifying after-dark escape: pulsating DJ beats, craft cocktails, and retro club vibes fuel nights until 3am on Bath Street.
Buff Club
2.1 km
Dive into Glasgow's funky basement beats at The Buff Club, where soul, disco, and 80s grooves light up the night under disco ball magic.
142B Lounge
2.2 km
Glasgow's premier spot for Afrobeats, Amapiano, and African flavors—dance, dine, and vibe in luxury VIP style until dawn.
The Plug Glasgow
2.3 km
Experience Glasgow’s premier Afrobeat nightclub where Nigerian wedding vibes meet luxury nightlife and vibrant celebration.
Sub Club
2.3 km
Glasgow’s legendary underground nightclub, Sub Club, pulses with cutting-edge sound and authentic dance culture in an intimate basement setting.
Classic Grand
2.3 km
Glasgow's ultimate electronic music haven in a reborn cinema, where thunderous beats and euphoric crowds collide until dawn.
Cathouse Rock Club
2.3 km
Glasgow's unrelenting rock fortress since 1990—metal riffs, live gigs, and alternative fury across three pounding rooms.
Club Tropicana & Venga
2.3 km
Two-room retro nightclub in central Glasgow with themed ’80s/’90s nights, booth bookings and a high-energy weekend atmosphere.
The Savoy
2.3 km
Experience Glasgow’s vibrant weekend nightlife at The Savoy, a lively nightclub on Sauchiehall Street pulsing with music and energy until dawn.
Kokomo Glasgow
2.4 km
Kokomo Glasgow was a late-night nightclub and bar known for its energetic vibe and central city location on West Regent Street.
Platinum Lace Glasgow
2.4 km
Glasgow’s premier gentlemen’s club with stunning dancers, VIP luxury, and an electric nightlife atmosphere in the city centre.
Bamboo
2.4 km
Glasgow’s energetic three-room basement nightclub offering affordable drinks and diverse music for a lively student crowd.
Popworld Glasgow
2.4 km
Dive into a whirlwind of 80s-00s pop anthems, retro props, and cocktail-fueled dance marathons at Glasgow's ultimate cheesy nightclub escape.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Futuristic Looks
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
